To hear my answer to Dave’s question, tune in to episode 458 of the podcast Living the Next Chapter. I describe why Rabbitface takes place in Oregon from 23:10-32:00
Direct link to the podcast session:
https://pod.link/1607392975/episode/7d35acf28ff2b47132a258f6025c5d50
You can also read a summary of my answer here
It all circles back to Tonya Harding. The protagonist in my book, Rabbitface, is a figure skater, much like Harding. Her background is far from affluent, making her skating journey quite unexpected. And since Tonya Harding hailed from Oregon, it made sense to me. Additionally, I researched Oregon's climate and found it similar to Sweden’s, making it easier for me to describe.I have a friend from Oregon. She sends me photos and answers my questions, which serve as my research input. The story itself couldn’t unfold in Sweden because the stark contrasts between the haves and have-nots are more pronounced in the US. People living in trailer parks versus those with plenty—these differences are not as significant in Sweden. Another critical aspect is the lack of access to healthcare without insurance, which greatly impacts one character's life—a situation uncommon in Sweden.
So, I needed a setting where these elements would make sense. Tonya Harding provided a starting point: Where did she come from? Oregon. Consequently, I researched Oregon and consulted my friend. I also watched movies set in Oregon for inspiration. That way, I discovered its beautiful hot springs—now a key element in one of the books.
Oregon seems like a place where a Swede could feel at home, even though everything is bigger in Oregon, like the trees and lakes.
So I chose Oregon since it’s beautiful and fitting for the narrative.
While those interested in figure skating will find Rabbitface – a love story on ice - particularly engaging, it has wider appeal. The first book follows characters in high school. One of my friends in her 60s enjoyed it despite initially thinking it wasn’t for her age group. There’s no upper age limit; anyone high school age or older may relate to it.
The series delves into life’s shadows and light, exploring how we find ourselves and each other amid adversities. Love stories are central but intertwined with deeper questions about life, death, love, hate, and friendship—themes that naturally weave into my narratives.
Figure skating fascinates me despite not being a skater myself; I danced when I was younger and always admired the beauty and athleticism of skaters. They often receive less attention than other athletes, like footballers, but deserve recognition for their grace and skill.
The idea for Rabbitface emerged while waiting at a hospital during one of my pregnancies. A leaflet about the handicap of being ugly caught my eye—it seemed absurd at first until I realised how societal beauty standards could impact lives profoundly.
In Rabbitface, the protagonist has an injury from childhood affecting her appearance. On the ice, her socioeconomic status or perceived ugliness doesn’t matter—she finds solace and strength there. Her journey reflects defiance against unfair judgments and evolving beyond hiding or fighting against societal norms.
Ultimately, the worst judgment often comes from within ourselves—a theme deeply explored throughout the series as characters seek self-acceptance amidst external prejudices.
So, I needed a setting where these elements would make sense. Tonya Harding provided a starting point: Where did she come from? Oregon. Consequently, I researched Oregon and consulted my friend. I also watched movies set in Oregon for inspiration. That way, I discovered its beautiful hot springs—now a key element in one of the books.
Oregon seems like a place where a Swede could feel at home, even though everything is bigger in Oregon, like the trees and lakes.
So I chose Oregon since it’s beautiful and fitting for the narrative.
While those interested in figure skating will find Rabbitface – a love story on ice - particularly engaging, it has wider appeal. The first book follows characters in high school. One of my friends in her 60s enjoyed it despite initially thinking it wasn’t for her age group. There’s no upper age limit; anyone high school age or older may relate to it.
The series delves into life’s shadows and light, exploring how we find ourselves and each other amid adversities. Love stories are central but intertwined with deeper questions about life, death, love, hate, and friendship—themes that naturally weave into my narratives.
Figure skating fascinates me despite not being a skater myself; I danced when I was younger and always admired the beauty and athleticism of skaters. They often receive less attention than other athletes, like footballers, but deserve recognition for their grace and skill.
The idea for Rabbitface emerged while waiting at a hospital during one of my pregnancies. A leaflet about the handicap of being ugly caught my eye—it seemed absurd at first until I realised how societal beauty standards could impact lives profoundly.
In Rabbitface, the protagonist has an injury from childhood affecting her appearance. On the ice, her socioeconomic status or perceived ugliness doesn’t matter—she finds solace and strength there. Her journey reflects defiance against unfair judgments and evolving beyond hiding or fighting against societal norms.
Ultimately, the worst judgment often comes from within ourselves—a theme deeply explored throughout the series as characters seek self-acceptance amidst external prejudices.
About the Rabbitface series
What would happen if you took the themes of Dirty Dancing, Wonder,and Antonia's Line all set against the backdrop of competitive figure skating?
You get Rabbitface: a contemporary romantic drama in 4 parts.
This is a story about love that defies expectations, the ripple effects of family legacies, and the courage to embrace who you truly are—inside and out.
Heartfelt, multi-layered, and deeply moving, it’s a tale that will touch your heart and stay with you.
Heartfelt, multi-layered, and deeply moving, it’s a tale that will touch your heart and stay with you.
The books are available on Amazon.
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